About Cantera Opal
“Cantera” means quarry—and Cantera opal is mined straight from the volcanic quarries of Magdalena and Queretaro, Mexico. These opals form in gas bubbles (vesicles) within rhyolite lava, creating natural cabochons with opal still embedded in its host rock.
Cantera opal can be precious (with a play of color) or common, with fiery internal sheen and fractures that sometimes mimic flash. The rhyolite matrix adds durability, making this a great option for jewelry without stabilization.
